As Muslims around the world are gearing up for a busy Hajj season, which is due to start on June 19. Saudi Arabia will begin receiving pilgrims from the upcoming week with the tally of visitors expected to be the highest since before the pandemic. Each year, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health plays a crucial role in issuing guidelines and advisories on vaccinations when hosting such large congregations to mitigate potential health risks. Given the scale of such events and the close proximity of attendees, there is an increased risk of infectious diseases spreading rapidly.
Hence, it is crucial for pilgrims to prioritize their health as part of the preparations and take necessary measures. To begin with, immunization plays a vital role in safeguarding the health and well-being of both the individuals and the entire Hajj community. Experts in UAE highlight the significance of immunization before embarking on the Hajj journey and provide insights about five important vaccinations that pilgrims should consider.
Dr. Mahir Khalil Ibrahim Jallo, Clinical Professor and Senior Consultant of Internal Medicine at Thumbay University Hospital, stated, “Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that can spread rapidly in crowded environments. Getting an annual influenza vaccine is highly recommended before Hajj. Since the influenza strains can vary each year, it is essential to receive the updated vaccine that matches the prevalent strains for that season.”
In addition Dr. Mahir added that another viral infection that affects the liver and is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water is Hepatitis A. “Pilgrims participating in Hajj are at an increased risk of exposure to this disease due to shared dining facilities and potential hygiene challenges. The hepatitis A vaccine provides long-term protection and is recommended for all Hajj travelers.”
More often, certain factors commonly associated with mass gatherings can potentially contribute to lowering people’s immunity-especially individuals in regular close proximity are at an increased risk of person-to-person transmission of infectious diseases. It could start-off start with a common cold, seasonal flu, bronchitis transmitted through droplets of saliva from coughing, sneezing or talking and rapidly transform into serious diseases like pneumonia, meningitis, respiratory tract infections, tuberculosis, and viral infections, among others.
Dr. Mahir further added, “During the Haj pilgrimage in Makkah, which brings together over two million pilgrims from 184 countries in the Arabian Gulf, there is a notable increase in the risk factors associated with pneumococcal disease (PD). Pilgrims, particularly those who are older or above 65 years of age and have chronic medical conditions, should consider receiving the pneumococcal vaccine prior to setting. Also yellow fever vaccine is advised by the embassy of Saudi Arabia for those coming in from countries at risk of yellow fever. In addition, Polio vaccine is also recommended for those traveling from polio-endemic countries. Within the sphere of PD, all serious illnesses caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) are included. This includes several conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.”
Pneumonia is a medical term for all lung infections. It can be a serious threat when individuals carry S. pneumoniae in their nasal passages, potentially exposing others to the risk of developing the disease through close contact via respiratory droplets that are sneezed, coughed, or exhaled.
Beside these, pilgrims may come into contact with unclean surfaces or experience minor injuries during the pilgrimage, making them vulnerable to tetanus. Dr. Mahir further explained that, “the Tetanus and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine is essential to protect against tetanus (lockjaw) and pertussis (whooping cough), especially Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can be spread through close contact with infected individuals. Hence, checking with your healthcare advisor to stay up to date with your Tdap vaccination is crucial.”
To sum-up, both experts cited that the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health mandates all pilgrims to receive the quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine, protecting against four common strains of the disease. Hence, it is advisable to receive this vaccine at least 10 days before travel.
Fortunately, majority of these diseases can be effectively prevented through timely vaccination, which is readily accessible at primary healthcare centers as well as private and government hospitals. By deliberating on these five important vaccinations with healthcare providers, including the meningococcal vaccine, influenza vaccine, hepatitis A vaccine, Tdap vaccine, and pneumococcal vaccine, pilgrims can contribute to a safe and healthy Hajj experience for all.
Doctors Advise Five important Vaccines
- Influenza
- Hepatitis A
- The Tetanus and Pertussis (Tdap)
- Meningococcal vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
- Get vaccinated
- Practice good hygiene
- Stay hydrated
- For people with chronic illnesses and elderly, a visit to their healthcare provider to stay-update on their medicine and dosage would be ideal.
Don’ts:
- Avoid overcrowding
- Stay away from sharing personal items
- Seek medical intervention if you experience any signs of illness
- Do not skip rest and sleep as it helps in supporting the immune system and maintaining overall well-being.